Find the Perfect Children’s Orthodontist with These Simple Tips

Do they really need to see a specialist when they still only have baby teeth? Well, YES! KidsHealth suggests there’s no set age for a child’s first orthodontist visit with some kids going when they’re 6, some starting their visits at 10, and others wait until they’re teenagers. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist once their permanent teeth start coming in, around age 7. At this age, issues such as uneven bite and overcrowding will become apparent.

How To Spot a Top Notch Children’s Orthodontist?

Looking for the perfect children’s orthodontist may very well prove an impossible task as no one is perfect, but finding a pediatric orthodontist that is perfect for your child is something that is attainable. There are several factors to consider in finding the right fit for you and your child. Here, we will give you some tips to spot the best kids orthodontist for your family.

Get Referrals–The best place to start is by getting personal recommendations from family and friends. If you think you may have an idea of what type of treatment your child may need, it’s a good idea to ask for a referral to a friend or family member’s kids’ orthodontist who has performed the same type of treatment or procedure as the one your child is needing. Ask about their experience and how they were treated. Find out how comfortable the child was with the orthodontist.

Research Online–You can always research orthodontist for kids online, paying close attention to patient reviews and testimonials. You may find a before and after gallery, which makes it easy to see what type of treatments and procedures they offer, and the quality of work that they do.

Ask for the Orthodontist’s Qualifications–After receiving their DDS or a DMD (Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Dental Medicine) qualification, orthodontists go on to complete two to three more years in a post-graduate program. Once they have earned their Masters of Science degree, they must take an examination from the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) to become a practicing orthodontist. If you want to see their degrees, certificates, and credentials, just ask. Children’s orthodontists are a special breed in that they specialize in caring for children with their unique needs and dynamics.